International Relations and Security Studies

International Relations Dominant Theories & security studies.

There are several dominant theories of international relations, each with their own proponents
and perspectives. It includes the following:
Realism: Realism is a theory that emphasizes the role of power and self-interest in international
relations. It argues that states are the primary actors in the international system, and that they are
motivated by the pursuit of power and security. Realism is associated with scholars such as Hans
Morgenthau, Kenneth Waltz, and John Mearsheimer.
Liberalism: Liberalism is a theory that emphasizes the role of international institutions, norms,
and cooperation in international relations. It argues that states can achieve security and prosperity
by working together to promote democracy, human rights, and free trade. Liberalism is
associated with scholars such as Immanuel Kant, Woodrow Wilson, and Robert Keohane.
Constructivism: Constructivism is a theory that emphasizes the role of ideas, norms, and
identities in international relations. It argues that the behavior of states is shaped by social
constructions of reality, and that these constructions can change over time. Constructivism is
associated with scholars such as Alexander Wendt, Nicholas Onuf, and Martha Finnemore.
Marxism: Marxism is a theory that emphasizes the role of economic factors in international
relations. It argues that capitalism creates a global system of exploitation and inequality, and that
the only way to achieve lasting peace and justice is to overthrow capitalism and establish a
socialist system. Marxism is associated with scholars such as Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and
Antonio Gramsci.
Feminism: Feminism is a theory that emphasizes the role of gender and power relations in
international relations. It argues that gender hierarchies are deeply embedded in the international
system, and that these hierarchies perpetuate violence and oppression. Feminism is associated
with scholars such as Cynthia Enloe, J. Ann Tickner, and Christine Sylvester.
Neorealism, also known as structural realism, is a theory of international relations that
emphasizes the role of the international system in shaping the behavior of states. It is associated
with scholars such as Kenneth Waltz, John Mearsheimer, and Robert Jervis.
According to neorealism, the behavior of states is determined by the structure of the international
system, which is characterized by anarchy and the absence of a global government. In the
absence of a central authority, states are compelled to rely on their own capabilities to ensure
their security and survival. This leads to a self-help system in which states seek to maximize
their power and security.
Neorealism argues that the distribution of power among states is the most important factor in
determining their behavior. In a unipolar system, where one state dominates the international
system, the dominant state will seek to maintain its dominance and prevent the rise of potential
challengers. In a bipolar system, where two states dominate the international system, the two
states will balance against each other to maintain stability. In a multipolar system, where several
states have roughly equal power, there is a greater risk of conflict, as states compete for power
and security.
Neorealism also emphasizes the importance of the military capabilities of states in determining
their behavior. States with greater military capabilities are better able to ensure their security and
pursue their interests, while weaker states are more vulnerable to threats from stronger states.
There are many other theories of international relations, and scholars often combine elements of
different theories to create their own perspectives. However, these five theories are among the
most dominant and influential in the field.

POWER AND SECURITY

Power and security are two key concepts in international relations, and they are closely related.
Power can be defined as the ability of one actor to influence the behavior of another actor in a
particular way. In international relations, power is usually measured in terms of military,
economic, and diplomatic capabilities. The pursuit of power is seen as a primary motivation for
states, as they seek to protect their own interests and security in an anarchic international system.
The concept of power is closely related to the realist school of thought in international relations,
which emphasizes the importance of the balance of power and the pursuit of national interests.
Security, on the other hand, refers to the absence of threats or risks to a state's survival and well-
being. In international relations, security is usually understood in terms of military threats, such
as the possibility of attack or invasion by another state or non-state actor. However, security can
also be affected by economic, political, and social factors, such as terrorism, environmental
degradation, and pandemics. The pursuit of security is seen as a primary goal for states, as they
seek to protect themselves from external threats and ensure their survival and well-being.
In international relations, power and security are closely linked, as the pursuit of power is seen as
a means to ensure security. States seek to increase their power and influence in order to protect
themselves from external threats and ensure their survival. However, the pursuit of power can
also lead to conflict and competition among states, as each seeks to protect its own interests and
security. Thus, the balance of power and the management of security threats are key issues in
international relations, and they are often the focus of diplomatic efforts and international
cooperation.

State, State Actors and Security

A state is a political entity with a defined territory, a permanent population, and a government
that exercises sovereign control over its territory and population. Importance of States in
International Relations include:-
 a) States are the primary actors in the international system and their behavior is the focus of
study in international relations.
b) States have the ability to enter into international agreements, participate in international
organizations, and use military force to protect their interests.
II. State Actor: States can be classified as great powers, middle powers, and small powers based
on their military, economic, and diplomatic capabilities. Non-state actors, such as international
organizations, multinational corporations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), also
play an important role in international relations. Role of State Actors in International Security
include:
a) States have the primary responsibility for ensuring their own security and protecting their
interests.
b) States use a range of tools to promote their security, including diplomacy, economic
sanctions, and military force.
Types of Security include: -
Military security which refers to the ability of a state to defend itself against external military
threats.
Economic security which implies to the ability of a state to maintain a stable and prosperous
economy.
Political security which refers to the ability of a state to maintain political stability and control
over its territory.
Security Challenges faced by states within the international system.
States face a range of security challenges, including terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and cyber
threats.
Non-state actors, such as terrorist groups and criminal organizations, can pose significant
security threats to states.
Case Study: Russia and Ukraine Conflict
Russia and Ukraine have a long history of political and economic ties, but tensions between the
two countries increased following Ukraine's 2014 revolution and the subsequent annexation of
Crimea by Russia. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is primarily a military security
issue, as both sides have used military force to assert their control over the disputed territory. The
conflict has also had significant economic and political implications, with sanctions and
economic pressures being used as tools by both sides to achieve their objectives. The conflict has
been the subject of significant international attention, with various international organizations
and states calling for an end to the fighting and a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Importance of State Actors in Ensuring Security
 State actors play a crucial role in ensuring security in the international system.
 States must use a range of tools to promote their security and protect their interests.
 Non-state actors also play an important role in shaping international security, and states
must be able to effectively address security threats posed by non-state actors.